20 Things I've Learned During My Travel Study

I recently turned twenty (woo!) and I figured it would be fun to post twenty things I have learned so far. This turned into a lengthy post, but I hope it offers some insight to the amazing experience that is study abroad.

1. Preparing ahead of time helps A LOT!

For myself and for many others, study abroad was my first time traveling to another country by myself. With that said, be sure to plan well in advance to coordinate all the details so your trip goes off without a hitch. Of course, you can’t plan for everything, but a general idea will save you a lot of stress on your journey.

2 . Don't over pack

Seriously, don't do it. French apartments are small and you honestly most likely don't need that much anyway. Also, most apartment buildings don't have elevators and, let me tell you, it is not fun lugging a heavy suitcase up the stairs. Mixing and matching your clothes is the way to go! If you find out you're missing something when you arrive, it can also be an excuse to go shopping in Paris, the fashion capital of the world.

my adorable French bedroom

3. Budgeting

I would say France is on par with Los Angeles as far as expenses go, so budgeting hasn’t been too different from being on campus at UCLA. However, with spending money on activities (museums, monuments, etc.) and food (crepes, ice cream, etc.), monitoring your spending is a good idea. Luckily, there are several easy ways to save money in Paris (full article on this will be in program guide which is coming soon!).

4. Bring your own toiletries if you’re used to specific products

There's nothing wrong with French toiletries, but some American brands may be more expensive or unavailable here in France. Also, according to our host-dad, most French people don't use conditioner, making it more expensive. If you’re used to specific products, it isn't the worst idea to pack your own!*

* disclaimer: I actually found some French products that I prefer over my American ones, so don’t fret if you decide to purchase toiletries when you arrive!

5. Branch Out

One of the best things about Travel Study is that you’re with other UCLA students! Everyone has a common interest and the program is a great way to meet people. Even though everyone lives with host families all over Paris, we have found it easy to take the metro and meet up. The program also organizes activities and excursions to spend time as a group outside of class.

For Bastille day, a group of us got together to picnic and watch the fireworks! I am grateful for the friends I've made and we're already planning our reunion back in LA.

6. Call home

You'll be busy, but be sure to call your family every now and then! They miss you and can't wait to hear about what you're doing.

7. Say YES!

You’re abroad! There’s so many new, exciting things that are very different from the United States. Be sure to make the most of it!

8. But if it doesn’t seem right, say no.

If something makes you uncomfortable, never feel obligated to do it. This time is about YOU and enriching your college experience - so only do things that you want to!

9. STUDY

I want to make it clear that Travel Study is NOT a five week vacation. It is essential to go to class and school should be your top priority (it is after all the reason you are abroad).

The Tuileries (garden near the Louvre) became one of our favorite study spots!

10. Find a balance

Though school should be your top priority, it is necessary to find a balance between work and play. The professors want you to work hard, but they do not want you cooped up in your room all day everyday. I have been spending my mornings studying, doing one fun activity when I finish my work, and then going to class - it has worked well!

11. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Whether you’re lost and need directions, confused about a cultural norm, or need help in class, just ask! Almost anyone you cross paths will most likely be willing to help you if you ask nicely. Our host parents have offered a wealth of knowledge about Paris and also have several questions for us about the United States. The professors on our program are great and have been there for us for everything - class related or not.

12. Making the most of your time can come in many different forms

Coming to Paris knowing my time was limited, I felt like I needed to be constantly doing something to make the most of my time. However, I have learned that this can take on many different forms. Some of my favorite memories so far have been picnicking along the Seine, relaxing at Luxembourg Gardens, and chatting with friends at a cafe.

The Seine

Picnic with Natasha & Netta

Hot Chocolate at Angelina

13. Be a tourist!

Though I have learned a lot about France the last several years, nothing compares to experiencing it in person. Though we are living in Paris, I believe it is necessary to go to all the “tourist attractions” even though you walk by them everyday now. I’ve found that I have been happiest standing in awe at the monuments I’ve learned about in textbooks - smile on my face, and camera in hand (snapping all these pictures you see on this blog, too).

I went up the Eiffel Tower, and it was honestly a dream come true

14. Wander - it’s okay to get lost

Unlike the US, Paris does not have a standard grid shaped cityscape. This leaves countless streets, alleys, and shortcuts to explore and room to discover the lesser known areas of Paris - just be sure to bring your map to find your way home!

15. Write it down

The five weeks of study abroad will be some of the busiest and most memorable. Keep a journal (or a blog) to look back on later.

16. Appreciate the world around you

Paris is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history. I am so grateful to be here.

17. Don’t be embarrassed by language ability

Though I have been learning French since I was eleven, this is my first time ever using it. Travel Study allows you to fully immerse yourself in the language, so dive right in. Don’t worry about making mistakes when speaking, you’re here to learn and I guarantee you’ll notice significant improvement after some time!

18. Be flexible with your plans

I am the person who likes to have a plan before starting anything .... but this isn’t always the most realistic. Don’t be afraid to go with the flow and see where life takes you!

19. This experience will change your life

As cliché as this sounds, you’ll leave this country as a changed person. I’m not saying it will be the most formative experience to ever occur in your life (it may be up to this point, though), but you will learn so much about being independent and a new culture that you will leave with a new perspective.

20. There's so much more to learn

The almost two weeks I’ve been here have been some of the most fun and eye-opening I’ve ever had. Everything is so new and exciting. I am grateful to have started my twenties here and I can’t wait for the rest of the program!